In Handheld Computers for Doctors, the author gives health care providers a new vision of fast-growing communication technology. The book is written in a readable, simple and user-friendly language. The short punchy chapters are not only stimulating to junior doctors but also to fearful mid-life professionals. The style and layout is simple, inviting and practical. The author has gone a long way to provide numerous websites to assist the reader. The author's style, language and simplicity are commendable. Personally, it has certainly given me plenty of food for thought with regard to use of handheld computers in the world of management.

Section one sets the scene for handheld computers, briefly going through the functions distinguishing the two formats (Palm and Pocket PC), weighing up the hardware and software. It emphasises the implications of the various functions to meet the individual's needs.

Section two takes the reader through the practical implications and author's own experiences in different surroundings, i.e. general practice, the acute medical department and the haematology department.

Section three highlights the difficulties and advantages of a co-ordinated approach, involving the IT department and peer support. It also elaborates on choosing different hardware, software and training programmes for individual needs with unbiased recommendation of particular equipment.

I would encourage all health care providers to read this book and make use of this fast-growing technology when managing patients.

Dr Mohan Pawa MSc, MBA (HSM), MBBS, FRSM, FODA
GP Trainer, Croydon, Surrey